Immune Deficiency - Causes & Impact on Overall Health
The immune system protects the body from infections and other harmful invaders through a network of specialised cells, tissues, and organs. When it does not function properly, individuals may become more vulnerable to infections. One such condition is primary immune deficiency disease (PIDD). More than 450 types of PIDDs have been identified, affecting the immune system's ability to function effectively.
Read on to know more about immune deficiency causes and their impact on overall health.
Common Conditions Associated with an Overactive Immune System
Primary immune deficiency disorders occur due to inherited genetic defects that impair the normal function of the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. These substances are known as allergens.
Having an allergic reaction is the most common example of an overactive immune system. Food products, pollen, mould and dust are some examples of allergens. Here are some conditions that are known as the main causes of immune system deficiency:
Asthma
This condition can lead to trouble breathing, wheezing and coughing. Asthma can be triggered by allergens like pollen, dust or by an irritant, such as tobacco smoke.
Allergic Rhinitis
Swelling of the nasal passages, sniffling and a runny nose from indoor allergens, like pets, dust or outdoor allergens (moulds or pollens) can cause allergic rhinitis.
Eczema
This is another cause of an overactive immune system. It is an allergen that causes an itchy rash called atopic dermatitis.
Autoimmune Diseases and Their Relationship to Immune Dysfunction
Autoimmune conditions are one of the causes of immune deficiency. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks specific healthy tissues or organs. The cause is unknown, but it is assumed to be a combination of an individual’s genes and environmental triggers. Here are three of the main autoimmune diseases:
Lupus
This condition attacks body tissues, which include the skin, kidneys and lungs. Many individuals with lupus have antinuclear antibodies (ANA), although these antibodies may also occur in other conditions.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is a kind of arthritis that causes deformities and swelling of the joints. Rheumatoid factor, which is an auto-antibody, is found in the blood of people with this condition.
Type 1 Diabetes
The immune system attacks the cells present in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin can remove sugar from the blood and use it as energy.
Diseases That Can Cause Immune Deficiency
You may come across many diseases or disorders that can lead to an immune deficiency. Here are some of the common ones:
APECED (APS-1)
APS-1, also known as autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1, causes a wide range of symptoms, which include autoimmunity against various types of organs. It also increases the vulnerability to candidiasis, which is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast.
BENTA Disease
BENTA Disease is one of the causes of immune deficiency. This is a rare genetic condition of the immune system caused by mutations in the CARD11 gene. The condition has been described by levels of specific immune cells that begin in infancy, immunodeficiency, enlarged lymph nodes, enlarged spleen and a high risk of lymphoma (a type of cancer).
CGD (Chronic Granulomatous Disease)
CGD takes place when WBCs (white blood cells) known as phagocytes cannot kill certain fungi and bacteria. This can put individuals at a much higher risk of developing fungal and bacterial infections. Mutations in one of five different genes can lead to this disease.
CVID (Common Variable Immunodeficiency)
This disease is caused by various genetic abnormalities that prevent immune cells from producing sufficient protective antibodies. Individuals with CVID may experience periodic viral and bacterial infections of the lungs, sinuses and upper airway.
CTLA4 Deficiency
CTLA4 deficiency impairs normal immune regulation, leading to immune dysregulation, autoimmunity, and recurrent infections. This leads to certain ailments like autoimmune issues, respiratory infections, enlarged lymph nodes, spleen, liver and intestinal disease.
DOCK8 Deficiency
This is another rare immune disorder, which is named after the mutated gene responsible for this condition. Individuals with this symptom have lower-than-normal numbers of immune cells and have a diminished capacity to move through dense tissues, like the skin. Such abnormalities can lead to recurrent viral infections of the respiratory system and skin.
Hyper-Immunoglobulin M Syndromes
These are inherited and rare ailments. Here, the immune system cannot generate normal levels of antibodies, IgE, IgG, and IgA. However, it can generate high or normal levels of IgM. Many genetic defects impair communication between antibody-producing B cells and T cells. This leads to hyper-IgM syndromes.
These syndromes can increase the risk of rare conditions throughout life and severe respiratory infections during infancy. Its treatment consists of subcutaneous or intravenous antibody replacement therapy, bone marrow transplant, regular intravenous and anti-fungal prophylactics.
(LAD) Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency
This is another inherited and rare immune condition in which immune cells, known as phagocytes, cannot move to the site of infection to prevent pathogens from invading. People with this condition might experience life-threatening and recurrent infections along with poor wound healing.
But what causes an immune system deficiency like LAD to take place? It is t is caused by mutations in the ITGB2 gene, which encodes the CD18 protein found on the surface of leukocytes. It encodes the leukocyte surface protein CD18. Some of the treatment options for this condition are antibiotics to stop and treat infection, and, in certain situations, a bone marrow transplant might be needed.
Immune deficiencies are conditions where the body’s defence mechanism does not function properly. This increases the chances of infections and diseases. Once you know what causes immune deficiency, it can become easier for you to get the correct treatment and keep your immune system in good condition.
Reader Information: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information related to immune deficiency disorders, autoimmune diseases, allergies, genetic conditions, and treatment options is general in nature and may not apply to every individual. Symptoms, causes, severity, and management of immune system disorders can vary significantly from person to person. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, personalized medical advice, and appropriate treatment recommendations.
FAQs
1. Why do individuals get an immune deficiency?
Some immune deficiencies occur because of changes in genes, which act as instructions for how the body and immune system function. These genetic changes can be inherited from one or both parents, increasing the risk of certain immune system disorders.
2. Is an immune deficiency a severe issue?
Yes. Immune deficiency stands out as a serious condition. It can prevent the body from fighting off fungi, viruses and bacteria. In return, it can leave you highly susceptible to periodic, unusual infections. Depending on the type and severity, it can lead to dangerous complications like organ damage, recurrent infections, increased cancer risk, and autoimmune conditions.
3. Is it possible for a vitamin deficiency to make the immune system weak?
B vitamins (such as B12 and B6), Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin D deficiencies can lead to a weak immune system. Lack of these nutrients can impair antibody response, T-cell activation and the production of immune cells. Knowing what vitamin deficiency causes a weak immune system can help you avoid any deficiency.
